Young Readers Program
Chautauqua Institution is a community that values and celebrates reading, and since 1994, the CLSC Young Readers program has engaged young Chautauquans and community members in the enjoyment of good reading. Each summer, a selection of books are chosen for their quality, the variety of their styles and subjects, and their appeal to young readers. While aimed at 9- to 14-year-olds, these books will also delight younger and older readers.
Contact Information
Karen Schiavone
Manager of Community Education
(716) 357-6290
[email protected]
The Program
In addition to reading the summer’s selections, youth are invited to attend the related weekly program throughout the Chautauqua season. The program includes a brief book discussion followed by a presentation or activity led by community leaders, local organizations, and sometimes even the authors themselves.
While the most important feature of the Young Readers program is reading, all levels of participation are important and are encouraged — from reading only one of the selections to reading them all. The weekly programs are open to all youth, and reading the week’s selection is encouraged but not required for attendance.

Young Readers Medallion
The Young Readers medallion rewards young Chautauquans who read 16 books from the program’s historic book list. The medallion is made possible by the John H. Bliss Memorial Fund and the support of the CLSC Class of 2002.
2022 Book List
July 3 @ 1:00 pm Week Two (July 2–9)
CLSC Young Readers: “Wilderlore: The Accidental Apprentice” by Amanda Foody
Hultquist Porch
July 10 @ 1:00 pm Week Three (July 9–16)
CLSC Young Readers: “Every Human Has Rights: A Photographic Declaration for Kids” by National Geographic
Hultquist Porch
July 17 @ 1:00 pm Week Four (July 16–23)
CLSC Young Readers: “Aru Shah and the End of Time” by Roshani Chokshi
Hultquist Porch
July 24 @ 1:00 pm Week Five (July 23–30)
CLSC Young Readers: “Call Us What We Carry” by Amanda Gorman
Hultquist Porch
July 31 @ 1:00 pm Week Six (July 30–August 6)
CLSC Young Readers: “Tom’s Midnight Garden” graphic novel by Edith
Hultquist Porch
August 7 @ 1:00 pm Week Seven (August 6–13)
CLSC Young Readers: “Jennifer Chan is not Alone” by Tae Keller
Hultquist Porch
August 14 @ 1:00 pm Week Eight (August 13–20)
CLSC Young Readers: “The Beatryce Prophecy” by Kate Dicamillo
Hultquist Porch
August 21 @ 1:00 pm Week Nine (August 20–28)
CLSC Young Readers: “The Raconteur’s Commonplace Book: A Greenglass House Story” by Kate Milford
Hultquist Porch